I had pets for almost 15 years while living in Brazil, including a Rottweiler who, towards the end of her life, needed special care as she had limited mobility and could not hear very well. Even so, she lived with me for nearly 15 years, which is considered beyond the average life expectancy for that breed. I attribute her longevity to the good care and the environment in which she lived.

Among the activities I carried out with my pets were: going for walks (at a normal or faster pace when they were young, and at a slower pace as they grew older), providing food and water and cleaning their bowls, administering oral or spray medication when prescribed by the vet, giving them baths, and, of course, plenty of affection.

At certain times, I even had three dogs at home at the same time – two of my own and another belonging to my grandmother, when she needed someone to look after him.